SPIEGEL Magazine

Complex arms procurement projects, confused hierarchies and major reforms are just some of the issues facing future Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen. It's certainly a challenge -- but also a huge chance for the conservative politician to make her mark. By Gordon Repinskimore...[ Comment ]

Ethical worries have slowed medical research into applications for stem cells. But scientists like Robert Lanza have developed less controversial ways to derive stem cells from normal body cells rather than embryos and are already launching the first clinical trials. By Philip Bethgemore...[ Comment ]

American sociobiologist Edward O. Wilson is championing a controversial new approach for explaining the origins of virtue and sin. In an interview, the world-famous ant reseacher explains why he believes the inner struggle is the characteristic trait of human nature. By Philip Bethge and Johann Grollemore...[ Comment ]

For five years now, the Red October computer virus has embarked on a new brand of espionage, stealing emails and other encrypted classified documents undetected from diplomats around the world. Though the virus may now be in hibernation, it's designed so that it can strike again at anytime. By Benjamin Bidder, Matthias Schepp and Hilmar Schmundtmore...[ Comment ]

In October, German government officials blocked the merger of defense giants EADS and BAE Systems. The merger was a key part of EADS CEO Thomas Enders' strategy to rebalance the company's portfolio. In a SPIEGEL interview, Enders explains how the pan-European firm is picking up the pieces. more...[ Comment ]

Innovative Russia Internet companies are waging a battle for market share against US competitors, such as Google and Facebook. But another battle is raging within the country itself -- between supporters of online freedom and politicians wary of how online services can help foment revolt. By Benjamin Biddermore...[ Comment ]

When Qatar presented its plans to build soccer stadiums in the middle of the desert for the 2022 World Cup, it was ridiculed as "the biggest football joke of all time." But the architect chosen to design the winning bid knows all about reinventing oneself -- and came up with a grand vision for the desert kingdom. By Alexander Smoltczykmore...[ Comment ]

Residents of Spain's Huesca Province recently won 700 million euros ($910 million) in the country's Christmas lottery. The money could bring a brighter future to the rural village of Sodeto, which has been shrinking for years. The region's fate will depend on what its newfound millionaires do with their money. By Nicola Abémore...

Should scientists be allowed to create extremely aggressive and highly infectious influenza viruses? Dutch virologists have done it and, in the process, triggered a fierce debate over the risks of bioterrorism and the potential release of deadly viruses. By Veronika Hackenbroch and Gerald Traufettermore...

The Occupy Wall Street movement is just one example of the sudden outbreak of tension between America's super-rich and the "other 99 percent." Experts now say the US has entered a second Gilded Age, but one in which hedge fund managers have replaced oil barons -- and are killing the American dream. By Thomas Schulzmore...[ Comment ]